Holly Berri Magic (Male & Female) 3G
Details
Common Name: Holly Berri Magic
Latin Name: Ilex x meserveae 'berri magic®' (blue prince & princess)
Sun, Pt. Shade
Zone: 5
Height: 1.75 - 2 m
Width: 1.5 - 1.75 m
Special Features: Male & Female, Red Berries, Cut branches, Winter interest, No Pollinator Needed
Hollies will have small white insignificant flowers in Spring. The female plant will produce the signature beautiful red berries which will persist into the Winter. Berri Magic has ‘blue prince' and 'blue princess' planted together, and therefore, there is no need to plant another holly for pollination. Gorgeous glossy, dark blue-green, spiny edged leaves, will have a purple tinge in the Winter. You’ll want to plant more than one of this upright, vase-shaped shrub so you can cut some stems for your Christmas decor. Hollies grow best in a slightly acidic, slightly moist, well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade, but more sun produces more berries. Planting in a sheltered location from strong Winter winds is recommended. December is a perfect time for pruning. Trimming Holly bushes helps keep their shape and appearance. Water hollies well in late Fall to ensure the plant is well-hydrated going into Winter, but not to the point of sogginess. Desiccation occurs when moisture is lost faster than it can be absorbed, usually due to harsh winter winds, sunlight, and long periods of cold, dry weather. You can apply Winter protection by spraying an anti-desiccant such as Wilt Pruf, but follow directions closely as applying the products too early can cause more harm than good. If you decide to apply this, spray holly in late Fall or early Winter when the plant is completely dormant. The best time is when temperatures are between 4-10 C, preferably when no rainfall is expected. You may choose instead to create a wind barrier using burlap. Place stakes around the bushes and wrap the burlap around this frame. A teepee structure will help protect branches from heavy snow.